Question 1

Is Colombia Safe? My Essential 2026 Safety Advice

Accepted Answer

Generally, yes, Colombia is safe for travellers, provided you use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings. Most visits through the popular tourist destinations are completely trouble free, but petty theft like phone snatching can happen in busy city areas. The best local advice to follow is the famous Colombian phrase, "no dar papaya," which translates to "do not give papaya." This simply means do not make yourself an easy target by flashing expensive jewellery or walking around with your phone out. Stick to registered taxi apps at night, keep your valuables secure and you will find the local people to be incredibly warm, welcoming and helpful throughout your journey.

For extra peace of mind, you can find in depth safety advice for every destination within my specific town guides.

Question 2

How to Get Around Colombia

Accepted Answer

Navigating your Colombia travel route is very straightforward, as the country offers brilliant transit options for every budget. For long distance travel between major hubs like Medellin and Cartagena, I highly recommend booking domestic flights. Internal flights are incredibly affordable and save you from enduring 13 to 14 hour bus journeys through winding mountain roads.

For shorter regional hops, such as travelling from Santa Marta to Minca or Palomino, the local green public buses and shared colectivos are exceptionally cheap, safe and easy to use. Within the cities, always choose registered ride sharing apps like Uber, especially after dark, to ensure a stress free and secure journey

Question 3

Is Colombia Safe? My Essential 2026 Safety Advice

Accepted Answer

Generally, yes, Colombia is safe for travellers, provided you use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings. Most visits through the popular tourist destinations are completely trouble free, but petty theft like phone snatching can happen in busy city areas. The best local advice to follow is the famous Colombian phrase, "no dar papaya," which translates to "do not give papaya." This simply means do not make yourself an easy target by flashing expensive jewellery or walking around with your phone out. Stick to registered taxi apps at night, keep your valuables secure and you will find the local people to be incredibly warm, welcoming and helpful throughout your journey.

For extra peace of mind, you can find in depth safety advice for every destination within my specific town guides.

Question 4

How to Get Around Colombia

Accepted Answer

Navigating your Colombia travel route is very straightforward, as the country offers brilliant transit options for every budget. For long distance travel between major hubs like Medellin and Cartagena, I highly recommend booking domestic flights. Internal flights are incredibly affordable and save you from enduring 13 to 14 hour bus journeys through winding mountain roads.

For shorter regional hops, such as travelling from Santa Marta to Minca or Palomino, the local green public buses and shared colectivos are exceptionally cheap, safe and easy to use. Within the cities, always choose registered ride sharing apps like Uber, especially after dark, to ensure a stress free and secure journey